Ethnic Koreans in Japan : Peer or Pariah

Abstract: In Japan, there are currently over 600,000 ethnic Koreans, or Zainichi Koreans, permanently residing, making up the largest foreign minority group. The focus of this research is the exploration of experienced and perceived discrimination against Zainichi Koreans permanently residing in Japan. It has dealt with: 1) current forms of discrimination against Zainichi Koreans, 2) the Japanese government's role in alleviating discrimination, 3) various ways in which Zainichi Koreans experience discrimination in their daily lives in relation to their self-identities. This case study was carried out through systematic, open ended interviews with members of both the Korean and Japanese communities. Moreover, secondary materials collected in Sweden and Japan were use as a means to create a base from which to conduct the study. The result of the research has shown that, although the previous decade has seen many improvements, discrimination against Zainichi Koreans exists still today both a legal and social level. Furthermore, the Japanese government has been reluctant to take the steps necessary to end discrimination and bring about equality. Interviews with Zainichi Koreans reveal that there are discrepancies in the level of experienced discrimination based on personal identity, with those identifying with North Korea experiencing the most discrimination.